S.E. updates computer supply

School to reduce some positions

June 7, 2013

ATTICA - The meeting lasted only 15 minutes, but the Seneca East Board of Education accomplished a great deal in the areas of technology and personnel at a 6 a.m. start Thursday.

The board accepted a bid of $250,930.17 from Buckeye IT to purchase and provide warranties for 383 laptop computers. High school students are to use 309 of the machines and the balance are to be used by K-12 teachers. The computers will be purchased out of the technology fund and the accidental damage warranties from the general fund.

Schools Superintendent Michael Wank said there are more than 850 computers in the school building now, adding "We're at a point where we had to replace, and putting these laptops in students' and teachers' hands will create more mobile labs." Students will have to pay a $60 non-refundable computer deposit, and a $15 technology fee for K-12 students will remain.

Teachers are to attend two training sessions this summer, said Wank, and more in August. There is to be an upgrade in the wireless system, with 20 wireless access points increasing to 53, and charging stations are to be available. Wank said some desktop models may be offered for sale, saying "Whatever we can sell, we will sell."

The board approved a resolution instituting a "reduction in force" due to financial reasons. Wank said the district needs to keep finances in order in light of cuts from the state. Positions include a high school math position reduced to 5/8 time, a special education instructor and student aide positions eliminated, and one reading teacher position to half-time. The reading position is a retiring then rehire situation. Wank said previous to this action, there had not been any reduction in force for about 8 years.

The resignation of high school Spanish teacher Danielle Clime was accepted effective May 23, and five extended days for the 2012-13 school year was approved for Andrea Schimpf.